The Blogger Genius Podcast Jillian Leslie

I'm Jillian Leslie, the host of The Blogger Genius Podcast and the founder of MiloTree. In my latest episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredibly talented Madison Wetherill, a food blogger, web designer, and podcaster at Grace + Vine Studios.
Today, we're talking about the essential traffic strategies food bloggers (and other niche bloggers) need to know to compete in today's market.

Show Notes:
MiloTreeCart Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call with me MiloTreeCart Affiliate Program Personality Quiz: What Digital Product Should I Create? Joyfully Mad Kitchen Grace + Vine Studios MiloTree Pop-Up App Join My Blogger Genius Email List Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes Ahrefs Airtable Canva ChatGPT
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The Power of Niche Specialization and Personal Branding
One of the key takeaways from our discussion is the significance of finding your niche. Madison emphasizes that by niching down, food bloggers can establish themselves as experts and cultivate a dedicated audience. Personal branding goes hand in hand with this, as it's crucial to connect with your audience on a personal level. By showcasing your human side and creating relatable content, you forge a stronger bond with your readers.

Adapting to Industry Changes and Optimizing for E-E-A-T
We delve into the concerns that come with shifts in ad networks, Google algorithms, and the advent of AI technology. Madison's advice? Focus on building personal connections and optimize your website for E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). This not only helps in establishing credibility but also in gaining the trust of your audience.

The Art of Crafting an Engaging About Page
Your "About page" is more than just a biography; it's a strategic tool to convey authority and trustworthiness. Madison highlights the importance of including a personal photo and linking to a well-crafted about page. This balance showcases your expertise while also addressing your audience's needs and interests.

Monetization Strategies: Beyond Traditional Ads
The conversation also covers monetization strategies for food bloggers. We discuss the potential of diversifying income streams through digital products like paid meal plans, newsletters, and ebooks. The goal is to provide specific and valuable content that solves your audience's problems, thereby building a community of loyal supporters.

Essential Tools for Food Bloggers
Madison shares her favorite tools, which include Ahrefs for SEO and keyword research, Airtable for project management, and the Kadence framework for website customization. I also chimed in with the mention of ChatGPT and Canva as indispensable tools for bloggers.

Building a Community and Offering Value
Our discussion highlightsthe shift from relying solely on ad revenue to creating valuable digital products and nurturing a strong community. The key is to connect with your audience, address their problems, and build trust through personalized and niche-specific content.

Remember, food blogging is now more than just recipes—it's about the stories, the expertise, and the connections we make.

Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy:
Master Google Updates: Essential Survival Guide for Niche Bloggers! How to Make Money Blogging in 2024 (New Trends) Advanced Coaching Tips for Food Bloggers
MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products
I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank

Hello, fellow niche bloggers and digital marketing enthusiasts! Today I'm excited to share with you some invaluable insights from my latest Blogger Genius Podcast episode.

We're diving deep into the recent Google updates and their impact on popular niche bloggers, like lifestyle bloggers, beauty bloggers, fitness bloggers, weight loss bloggers, interior design bloggers, personal finance blogs, and more.

Think of this as your survival guide to the new Google updates and an exploration into the latest trends in the world of digital marketing.

Show Notes:
MiloTreeCart Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call with me MiloTreeCart Affiliate Program Personality Quiz: What Digital Product Should I Create? MiloTree Pop-Up App Join My Blogger Genius Email List Steve Wiideman Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes
Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast:
iTunes YouTube Spotify
Adapting to Google Algorithm Updates
As many of you know, Google's algorithm updates can significantly affect our traffic and income, especially for those of us who rely on ads and affiliate marketing to monetize our niche blogs. In fact, even popular niches, like food blogging, have taken big hits and lost tons of traffic. But bottom line, there's a silver lining! 

I've been working with bloggers to pivot towards selling digital products, like digital downloads, workshops, memberships, online courses, coaching, etc., offering free 20-minute strategy calls to brainstorm and navigate this new income avenue. It's all about adapting and diversifying our monetization methods and traffic sources.

SEO Expertise with SEO, Steve Weidman
To give us a deeper understanding, I brought in SEO guru Steve Wiideman. Steve's expertise shed light on the necessity for bloggers to stay agile with Google's changing search algorithms and user behaviors. He stressed the importance of unique and helpful content, even in the age of AI-generated material.

Beyond Traditional Web Search
Steve urges us to look beyond the confines of traditional web search. Platforms like Google Discover, TikTok, and short-form media content are becoming increasingly important. It's about broadening our digital marketing horizons and embracing the platforms where our audiences spend their time.

The Art of Keyword Research
We also discuss the evolving role of keyword research in driving traffic and building brand awareness. Understanding user intent is crucial for creating content that truly resonates and provides value. For those hit by a drop in Google traffic, Steve recommended analyzing top-performing pages, studying competitors, and optimizing content for a variety of platforms and search engines. For new bloggers and experienced bloggers, it's no longer all about Google.

Personalization and Marketing Channels
The commoditization of content means we need to get personal. So even if you're in one of the most profitable blogging niches, like home improvement, personal development, fashion, mental health,  real estate, or travel etc. this is no longer enough to make a lot of money. It's a good idea to start using "I" and "me," and sharing your personal experiences to make our content more relatable. It will show your expertise and how well you know your specific niche. Steve also highlighted the need to stay on top of industry trends and utilize different marketing channels to remain competitive.

Maximizing Marketing Vehicles
In the latter part of our conversation, Steve emphasizes setting goals for increasing the utilization of various marketing vehicles. He suggests seeking expertise in platforms like LinkedIn and using AI to boost visibility and authority.

The Rise of Generative AI
Generative AI is revolutionizing how we interact and communicate. It's moving from providing solutions to taking actions, such as scheduling and content creation. This evolution opens up exciting opp

Today I want to talk about how to look up from your own blog with fresh eyes to see the changing landscape and new trends. And then I want to share the best ways to pivot I recommend you start implementing now to grow your blog income.

The Changing World of Blogging
Is Blogging Dead?
The first question I get asked is “Is blogging dead?” And I’m going to say no, it’s not dead but the blogging world is changing.

Drop in Google Traffic
As you know I talk to professional bloggers all the time, in all different niches, and recently I talked to four who all lost between 70-90% of their site traffic during these March Google updates. 

Now we all know that when Google pushes out updates we shouldn’t change anything for about a month to see where the dust settles, but I don’t think any of these bloggers have seen such big swings before. So to be honest they were all a bit shell-shocked. 

Show Notes:
MiloTreeCart Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call with me MiloTreeCart Affiliate Program Catch My Party Anca from The Butter Table MiloTree Pop-Up App Join My Blogger Genius Email List Become a Blogger Genius Facebook GroupAll Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes
Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast:
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Google's Influence and SEO
Shifts in Search Results
So the first trend I expect to see is a decrease in overall traffic from Google for publishers or bloggers who are creating valuable content using best practices. Will we all be losing 70-90% of our traffic, my gut says no. In my experience, when Google makes changes they typically don’t reverse course.

For example, when we launched Catch My Party, a lot of our users were Etsy sellers so we used their API and imported their products to our site, each product got a separate page. We did this for ease. We weren’t monetizing it. Google wasn’t seeing these pages as duplicate content so if people were searching for these products they could end up on our site. We were making really good affiliate income, the Etsy sellers were happy because of all the exposure they were getting, it was growing our traffic, and then one day it all went away. Google de-indexed those pages and that traffic and income were gone.

My point is that Google changes usually move in one direction. And what is Google facing right now? Existential threats. Remember, all they care about is people coming to Google in need information and end up finding it and having a good experience.

Recently though, the overall feel is the search experience has been deteriorating so Google has been making changes. Showing more results from Reddit and Quora. This is because they want answers from “real people.” Google has found that sites have been gaming SEO to make money with affiliate marketing, for example, and Google has been cracking down. 

The Introduction of AI in Search
Plus how is google going to implement AI in search. They are calling this the Google Search Generative Experience or SGE. Google is working on what this is going to look like, but one thing Google has said is their SGE will quickly provide users with the answers they need and not necessarily direct users to other sites or content. 

If their AI, Gemini, can give you better results on their GSE page than sending you off to a site they don’t control, you better believe they will do that. In fact, I think it’s already happening in the travel space.

Plus for successful bloggers monetizing with display ads, as 3rd party cookies get phased out,  advertisers not being able to track visitors, there will probably be downward pressure on ad revenue.

Adapting to New Realities
I was on a call with a food blogger this past week and I started painting this new picture for her and she couldn’t believe what I was saying. She’s an old school blogger. She doesn’t really use AI in her and feels like her readers could definitely tell the diffe

In today's episode, I sat down with Brooke Riley, the creative force behind the DIY blog Re-Fabbed, and the founder of Re-Fabbed Boutique, to delve into her entrepreneurial journey and the lessons she's learned along the way.

The Power of Social Media and Personal Connection
One of the pivotal moments in Brooke's journey was her decision to leverage Facebook live video content to connect with her audience. This strategic move allowed her to foster strong relationships with her followers, which translated into increased engagement and growth for her blog. It's a testament to the importance of authenticity and energy in every interaction, a principle that Brooke holds dear.

Show Notes:
MiloTreeCart Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call with me Get my 13 AI Ebook Prompts Re-Fabbed Re-Fabbed Boutique MiloTree Pop-Up App Join My Blogger Genius Email List Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes
Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast:
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Diversifying into E-Commerce with Re-Fab Boutique
As Brooke's blog audience grew, so did their interest in her personal style. This unexpected demand led her to explore the world of e-commerce with Re-Fab Boutique. Starting with dropshipping, Brooke faced the challenges of long shipping times and logistical hurdles, but her transparency and authenticity won over her audience, leading to impressive sales.

Embracing Imperfection and Taking Risks
Throughout our conversation, Brooke emphasizes the importance of embracing imperfection and the willingness to take calculated risks. She shares her transition from dropshipping to managing inventory and the mindset shift required to start small and scale based on customer feedback and demand.

Overcoming the Fear of Imperfection
A common struggle for many aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, is the fear of imperfection. Brooke and I discuss the need to overcome this fear and the power of taking action, even when things seem messy or unconventional. Brooke's approach to launching her coaching group and various businesses without waiting for the perfect timing is a powerful example of this principle in action.

The Joy of Serving and Connecting with Your Audience
Brooke also highlights the significance of serving and connecting with your audience. She urges entrepreneurs to personalize their approach, understand their community, and find joy in serving others. This, she believes, is the foundation for building authentic relationships and successful businesses.

Consistency, Authenticity, and Adaptability
Our discussion also touched on the challenges of maintaining consistency and the pressure to see immediate results. Brooke acknowledges the struggles but encourages entrepreneurs to stay committed to showing up consistently and focusing on the long-term impact of their efforts.

The Unpredictability of Online Traction
Brooke shares her experience of a two-year-old post suddenly going viral, reminding us of the unpredictable nature of online traction. She advises treating each viewer or customer as the most important person, as this can lead to exponential growth over time.

The Entrepreneurial Journey: A Parallel to Motherhood
Drawing a parallel between the challenges of building a business and the early stages of motherhood, I emphasize the need to prepare for difficulties, seek feedback, and be open to making adjustments. Both Brooke and I stress the importance of consistency and the willingness to adapt and pivot when necessary.

Seeking Feedback and Building Relationships
Brooke discusses the need for self-assessment and the willingness to change strategies if the current approach is not yielding results. We both underscore the value of seeking feedback, being open to constructive criticism, and building relationships within the business community.

Embracing Challenges and Uncertainties
In closing, I encou

The Ever-Changing Landscape of Blogging and Online Business
Hello, fellow bloggers and enthusiasts! This week has been a whirlwind with Google updates shaking the blogging world, particularly affecting niche bloggers who rely on ads and affiliate marketing. It's a stark reminder of the importance of diversifying income streams. If you're considering selling digital products, I'm here to help. I offer a free 20-minute strategy call to discuss digital product strategies and best practices. Change is the only constant in our industry, so don't hesitate to reach out and book your call through milotree.com.

A Conversation with Kayla Burton: From Baking to Blogging
In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Kayla Burton, the creative force behind Broken Oven Baking and a food blog coach. Kayla's journey from working in clinical research to a full-time food blogger and coach is nothing short of inspiring. She started her blog as a hobby in 2020, and within a few years, she's turned her passion into a thriving business and now helps others do the same.

Show Notes:
MiloTreeCart Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call with me Broken Oven Baking Food Blog Coach MiloTree Pop-Up App Join My Blogger Genius Email List Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes
Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast:
iTunes YouTube Spotify
The Struggles and Triumphs of Food Blogging
Kayla and I delved into the common challenges food bloggers face, particularly the technical aspects like SEO and staying updated with technology. She emphasizes the importance of user experience, ensuring your site is fast, navigable, and answers your audience's questions. Kayla also shared her approach to personalizing content, making sure her readers know there's a real person behind the recipes.

SEO for Food Bloggers: A Recipe for Success
When it comes to SEO, Kayla advises focusing on user experience and providing a "warm hug" through your content. This includes FAQs, intros, and personalized touches that make your blog stand out. With the rise of AI, showcasing your humanity has become more crucial than ever.

Crafting Your Unique Vibe
Kayla's vibe is all about simplicity and ease in baking, with a personal touch that reflects her life in Chicago. She believes in sprinkling your story into your posts while still delivering valuable content to your readers.

The Strategy Behind Recipe Selection
Kayla recommends a dual approach to selecting recipes for your blog: targeting low competition keywords for easier ranking, and mixing in higher competition keywords for potential high traffic gains. She also stresses the importance of competitive analysis, looking at what's ranking on Google, and figuring out how to create content that competes effectively.

Final Thoughts
My conversation with Kayla Burton was a treasure trove of insights for food bloggers and bloggers in any niche. The key takeaway is the balance between personal touch and SEO optimization. As we navigate the blogging landscape, it's clear that adaptability, strategy, and authenticity are the ingredients for a successful online presence.

Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy:
What’s Next for Food Bloggers: Changes in 2024 with Megan Porta How Email Marketing Helps Bloggers Increase Ad Revenue with Cassie Noyes The Truth About Blogging Success: Hard Work and Risks with Faith Mariah
MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products
I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-t

Today I'm thrilled to share with you some invaluable insights from my recent conversation with Cassie Noyes, a leading expert in email solutions at the ad network, Raptive (previously AdThrive). But before we dive into the heart of email marketing, let me extend an invitation to you.

If you're looking to explore a new income stream through selling digital products without the tech hassle, I'm here to help. Join me for a free 20-minute strategy call, and let's unlock your digital product potential together. Head over to milotree.com to book your free slot!

The Critical Role of Email in Today's Blogging Landscape
In this episode, we're taking a detour from the usual topics like SEO and site optimization to focus on something that's becoming increasingly crucial for bloggers – email marketing. Cassie Noyes, who spearheads the email solutions team at Raptive, joins me to unravel why email is not just a tool but a vital asset in building a loyal audience and boosting ad revenue.

Show Notes:
MiloTreeCart Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call with me Raptive MiloTree Pop-Up App Join My Blogger Genius Email List Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes
Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast:
iTunes YouTube Spotify
The Journey to Email Expertise
Cassie's journey into the world of email marketing began in the realm of traditional print magazine publishing, where she honed her skills in audience development. At Raptive, she now dedicates her expertise to helping creators grow their subscriber lists and engage their audience effectively, ensuring higher open and click rates, and ultimately, driving more views and engagement to their sites.

Why Email Matters More Than Ever
With the impending demise of cookies and the evolution of AI in search, owning your audience has never been more important. Cassie explains that while SEO remains a key driver of traffic, having a direct relationship with your audience through email can make you a go-to brand, encouraging direct site visits over incidental search engine discoveries.

The Identity Factor in Email Marketing
The shift away from cookies means advertisers are on the lookout for more reliable ways to identify and target audiences. Here's where your email list comes into play. Each time a subscriber visits your site, their identity can be captured, allowing advertisers to pay more for those visits. This direct identification translates into higher ad revenue for you as a publisher.

Best Practices for Engaging Your Audience
Cassie shares that the content of your emails should be actionable and immediately useful to your audience. Think recipes or tips that they can apply right away. A welcome series can be a powerful tool to introduce new subscribers to the breadth of your content.

Monetizing Through Email
Incorporating affiliate links or product recommendations in your emails can be a subtle yet effective way to monetize. The key is to ensure these inclusions add value to your subscribers' experience rather than feeling intrusive.

The Art of the Newsletter
Consistency is king when it comes to newsletters. Cassie recommends a regular cadence, ideally more than once a week, to keep your audience engaged. Keep your emails concise, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, with buttons for links and a moderate use of photos and emojis to draw the eye.

Crafting Compelling Subject Lines
Your subject line is your first impression. It should evoke emotion and curiosity while hinting at the content inside. A/B testing is your friend here, helping you discover what resonates best with your audience and improving open rates.

Maintaining a Healthy Email List
Periodically cleaning your email list is essential for maintaining its health. Re-engagement campaigns can help identify inactive subscribers, and if they remain unresponsive, it may be time to let them go.

Embracing AI